What it is
It usually affects one ear. A smelly discharge that keeps coming back is a common early sign.
Surgery is almost always needed to remove it. Regular follow-up afterwards checks that it has not come back.
Common signs
- A watery, often smelly discharge from one ear
- Gradual hearing loss in one ear
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Earache, dizziness or ringing
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the ear with a microscope or otoscope
- Hearing tests
- CT or MRI scan
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Hearing test results before and after surgery
- ENT letters and scan reports
- Operation notes
- The follow-up scan schedule
Questions to ask your doctor
- How much has the ear been damaged?
- What will surgery involve, and will my hearing improve?
- How will we check it has not come back?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, weakness of the face, or severe dizziness with ear discharge: go to an emergency department
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.